Careers and Opportunities

 


Chief Strategy and Program Officer

The Chief Strategy and Program Officer at CNT is a strategic thought leader that will work closely with the CEO. This role is responsible for elevating the organization's influence in policymaking, infrastructure investment, and program implementation. This role is pivotal in enhancing program management across teams, fostering coordination between projects, and maximizing the impact of CNT's initiatives. This role will lead and collaborate with the managing directors to develop and execute short-term and long-term strategies, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities.

position details Download (PDF)

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

  • Lead the development of strategic programmatic plans for CNT, emphasizing key priorities including CBO engagement, transportation equity, comprehensive housing rehabilitation, community science, and green stormwater infrastructure, by collaborating with managing directors and the CEO.
  • Address opportunities and requests for CNT’s participation by assessing and executing appropriate strategic approaches.
  • Establish structures and systems to streamline program operations and efficiency.
  • Supervise 3 Managing Directors and assist in the oversight of program teams.
  • Develop project charters, team assignments, and expectations in collaboration with managing directors.
  • Create key performance indicators for projects and programs.
  • Evaluate project outcomes, develop lessons learned, and communicate impact.
  • Categorize projects into topical programs, ensuring cross-project and cross-team collaboration.
  • Subject matter expert and content creator for CNT’s key program areas. i.e., Transportation, Community Development, Water, Climate and Sustainable Economic Development
  • Prepares metrics and reporting for monthly staff and quarterly board meetings.
  • Monitor and manage grant and contract expectations to ensure high-quality performance.
  • Establish and implement protocol for QA/QC of work products in coordination with managing directors.
  • Oversee program budgets and resource allocation and conduct monthly financial statement reviews in coordination with the Director of Finance.
  • Support the development of capacity estimation and track program revenue expectations.
  • Co-lead funder prospecting for program activities, managing regular meetings on the topic.
  • Evaluate opportunities, engage program staff, and collaboratively determine pursuit strategies.
  • Oversee grant and proposal writing, providing leadership or assigning responsibilities to other staff.
  • Collaborate with project leads and the finance director to negotiate and finalize grants and contracts.
  • Define transition plans for successful proposals and ensure continued project administration involvement.
  • In coordination with the CEO, create and maintain relationships with program funders, both philanthropic and governmental.
  • Represent the organization at civic group engagements and funder-led convenings.
  • Participate in community events, public engagement meetings, and relevant public-facing activities.

Position Requirements

  • Bachelor's or master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Urban Planning, Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Business Administration).
  • Strong managerial skills with ability to motivate and inspire.
  • Strong knowledge or expertise in Transportation, Community Development or one of CNT program areas a plus.
  • Proven leadership experience in strategic planning, program development, change management, and nonprofit management.
  • Strong understanding of social issues and a commitment to the organization's mission.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
  • Track record of successful fundraising and resource mobilization.
  • Ability to think strategically and execute operational plans effectively.

The above is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities for this job, nor is it intended to be an exhaustive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job. Rather, it is intended to describe the general nature of the job. Employees may, from time to time and on an as-needed basis, be required to perform duties outside of the responsibilities listed here.

About CNT

CNT was founded in 1978 to organize residents to challenge harmful environmental practices with a socio-economic lens. Our founders believed in tackling issues directly within communities to elevate residents’ living standards and economic opportunities, in partnership with the people who lived there. Since then, we have expanded our work to include equitable transportation systems, inclusive housing strategies, and data informed decision making. Our core capabilities include:

  • Analysis - we are known for rigorous, interdisciplinary analysis of urban and regional problems, both quantitative and qualitative.
  • Engagement and Empowerment - our staff collaborates with local partners and government leaders, empowering them to improve communities both independently and alongside public institutions.
  • Innovation - we deliver data-informed policy, financial, and technological solutions, leveraging cutting-edge tools and insights to drive impactful change.
  • Community Collaboration - we partner with you to recognize gaps in service and devise innovative strategies to address challenges we discover jointly.

Our bottom-up, data-informed approach to problems produces evidence-based solutions. CNT helps support the creation of equitable, sustainable, and resilient local governments and communities through innovative analysis and solutions. We are proud to be known for building sophisticated data tools, developing online resources to make findings usable, and creating common-sense approaches to planning and sustainable development.

For more about our work see CNT's Overview & Capabilities (PDF)

Salary and Benefits

The salary for this position starts at $135,000, negotiable based on skills and experience.

CNT offers 20 vacation days, 12 holidays, 10 sick days, and 2 personal days annually, and a competitive benefits package. We respect life-work balance and are supportive of staff with families. CNT permits a flexible work from home practice and will maintain a flexible schedule in the long term. CNT expects all staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or be willing to become vaccinated after their hire.

Employment Policy: It is the policy of CNT that all employees are employed at the will of CNT. Continued employment is subject to funding availability and job performance.

Anti-Discrimination Policy: CNT is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or job applicant based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or marital status. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, termination, promotion, transfer, layoff, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

How to Apply

We we are viewing resumes on a rolling basis.

Please send cover letter and resume by March 15, 2024 to:

Andrea Ruiz
Center for Neighborhood Technology
17 N State, Suite 1400
Chicago, IL 60602
or email to aruiz@cnt.org

Please write “Chief Strategy and Program Officer” in the email subject line. No phone calls please.

Diversity Policy

View CNT's diversity policy here.

 


Director, People and Culture

The Director of People and Culture at CNT plays a pivotal role in advancing our mission by strategically managing all aspects of human resources to foster a positive and inclusive work environment. This leadership position requires a seasoned HR professional with a passion for the nonprofit sector, a commitment to justice, diversity, equity and inclusion (JEDI) and ethical practices, and a drive to attract, retain, and develop top talent.

position details Download (PDF)

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with the organization's mission and goals.
  • Collaborate with senior leadership to ensure HR initiatives support organizational objectives.
  • Lead recruitment efforts, from job posting to candidate selection, ensuring a diverse and qualified workforce.
  • Oversee comprehensive onboarding programs to integrate new hires seamlessly into the organization.
  • Oversee the day-to-day HR operations, including but not limited to payroll administration, benefits management, and employee records maintenance.
  • Continuously assess and improve HR processes for efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Foster an inclusive workplace culture by championing justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that promote a sense of belonging for all employees.
  • Work closely with leadership to embed inclusive leadership practices that empower and support a diverse workforce, fostering a culture of respect and collaboration.
  • Cultivate a positive and inclusive work environment through effective employee relations practices.
  • Address employee concerns, conduct investigations, and implement conflict resolution strategies as needed.
  • Design and implement performance appraisal systems that align with organizational goals.
  • Provide guidance on performance improvement plans and professional development opportunities.
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
  • Design and implement training and development programs to enhance employees' skills and knowledge.
  • Foster a culture of continuous learning and career growth within the organization.

Position Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in human resources, Business Administration, or a related field;
  • Master’s degree or relevant certifications are a plus.
  • 5 years' experience in Human Resources
  • Proven experience as an HR leader, preferably in the nonprofit sector.
  • In-depth knowledge of HR functions, employment laws, and best practices.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate at all organizational levels.
  • Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Strategic mindset with the ability to align HR initiatives with organizational goals.

The above is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities for this job, nor is it intended to be an exhaustive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job. Rather, it is intended to describe the general nature of the job. Employees may, from time to time and on an as-needed basis, be required to perform duties outside of the responsibilities listed here.

About CNT

CNT was founded in 1978 to organize residents to challenge harmful environmental practices with a socio-economic lens. Our founders believed in tackling issues directly within communities to elevate residents’ living standards and economic opportunities, in partnership with the people who lived there. Since then, we have expanded our work to include equitable transportation systems, inclusive housing strategies, and data informed decision making. Our core capabilities include:

  • Analysis - we are known for rigorous, interdisciplinary analysis of urban and regional problems, both quantitative and qualitative.
  • Engagement and Empowerment - our staff collaborates with local partners and government leaders, empowering them to improve communities both independently and alongside public institutions.
  • Innovation - we deliver data-informed policy, financial, and technological solutions, leveraging cutting-edge tools and insights to drive impactful change.
  • Community Collaboration - we partner with you to recognize gaps in service and devise innovative strategies to address challenges we discover jointly.

Our bottom-up, data-informed approach to problems produces evidence-based solutions. CNT helps support the creation of equitable, sustainable, and resilient local governments and communities through innovative analysis and solutions. We are proud to be known for building sophisticated data tools, developing online resources to make findings usable, and creating common-sense approaches to planning and sustainable development. 

For more about our work see CNT's Overview & Capabilities (PDF)

Salary and Benefits

The salary for this position starts at $90,000, negotiable based on skills and experience.

CNT offers 20 vacation days, 12 holidays, 10 sick days, and 2 personal days annually, and a competitive benefits package. We respect life-work balance and are supportive of staff with families. CNT permits a flexible work from home practice and will maintain a flexible schedule in the long term. CNT expects all staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or be willing to become vaccinated after their hire.

Employment Policy: It is the policy of CNT that all employees are employed at the will of CNT. Continued employment is subject to funding availability and job performance.

Anti-Discrimination Policy: CNT is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or job applicant based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or marital status. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, termination, promotion, transfer, layoff, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

How to Apply

We we are viewing resumes on a rolling basis.

Please send cover letter and resume by March 15, 2024 to:

Andrea Ruiz
Center for Neighborhood Technology
17 N State, Suite 1400
Chicago, IL 60602
or email to aruiz@cnt.org

Please write “Director of People and Culture” in the email subject line. No phone calls please.

Diversity Policy

View CNT's diversity policy here.

 


Managing Director, Urban Analytics

The Managing Director of Urban Analytics plays a pivotal role in leading and advancing analytical capabilities to drive informed decision-making in advocating for and creating equitable, sustainable, and resilient neighborhoods. This key leadership position will contribute to our mission by utilizing data-informed insights to influence strategic initiatives, policy advocacy, and community-driven programs.

The Urban Analytics team serves as CNT's analytical arm, offering vital support to both CNT's programs and mission-aligned partners. This position will lead a team of seasoned staff with diverse backgrounds in physics, public health, urban planning, environmental justice, computer science, and full stack web design. This team has led projects related to transportation equity, air quality and the development and maintenance of CNT's acclaimed tools ( i.e. H+T Index, AllTransit, ETOD tool, Urban Flooding Baseline, and the Green Values Calculator). The team’s core competencies and skills cover a wide range, including GIS and statistical analysis, data visualization, and user experience skills for creating effective web tools and print materials including the management and maintenance of the technical infrastructure needed to support our projects.

position details Download (PDF)

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

  • Oversee programmatic aspects, ensuring the successful delivery of analytical support to CNT programs and external partners.
  • Manage project budgets, oversee expenses, and ensure alignment with financial goals.
  • Lead a high-performance team of analysts and data scientists.
  • Design research-based analyses, marrying qualitative and quantitative data into actionable research products.
  • Leverage research data to understand underlying trends, troubleshoot assumptions, and verify data validity.
  • Develop and conceive analytical tools, to drive and support research and policy efforts.
  • Establish and maintain relationships with community-based organizations, universities, and stakeholders.
  • Contribute to fundraising efforts for CNT, by cultivating relationships with donors and government agencies.
  • Build and nurture collaborative partnerships with community-based organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions to enhance the impact of urban analytics initiatives.
  • Represent the organization in relevant forums, conferences, and collaborative efforts within the non-profit sector.
  • Work closely with community stakeholders to understand their needs, ensuring that urban analytics efforts address and benefit the communities we serve.
  • Foster transparency and open communication with community members regarding the use and impact of analytics in urban development.
  • Collaborate with other managing directors to develop cross-functional projects and drive proposals.
  • Engage in forecasting with MDs and CEO to estimate project completion within specified timeline.
  • Manage a professional development budget for outings, education, and activities.
  • Demonstrate commitment to CNT’s mission, values, and JEDI principles.
  • Create a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages innovation, professional growth, and the pursuit of excellence.
  • Participate in CNT’s strategic planning process (currently planned for early 2025) by leading the development of CNT’s long-term data and analytics vision and priorities.
  • Bring a forward-thinking approach to the table, appreciating the importance of emerging technologies, data analytics and evidence-informed policy.
  • Shape the narrative surrounding CNT’s analytical work, effectively communicating its impact and relevance, and positioning CNT as a local leader in data analytics related to transportation, housing, and climate priorities.
  • Spearhead efforts to enhance the visibility and impact of CNT’s flagship tools and attract funding for updates and maintenance ensuring long-term relevance.
  • Leverage CNT’s popular tools and explore innovative revenue streams, such as subscription models.
  • Embed CNT’s commitment to equity and racial justice within UA’s data and analytics projects.

Position Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree with 11-12 years experience or master’s degree with 9-10 years experience in Urban planning, Data Science, Analytics, Policy or a related field.
  • Proven experience in team management, programmatic oversight, and mentorship.
  • Strong analytical skills, with proficiency in GIS-based software, data visualization platforms and/or statistical programs or programming languages.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead collaborative projects and partnerships with community-based organizations.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; strong ability to engage with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Budget management experience, with a focus on aligning spending with project goals.
  • Familiarity with technology usage in the non-profit sector and an understanding of mixed-method research and the ability to leverage qualitative and quantitative data.
  • Creative thinker with the ability to generate innovative solutions.
  • Experience leveraging data products to inform policy or action.

The above is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities for this job, nor is it intended to be an exhaustive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job. Rather, it is intended to describe the general nature of the job. Employees may, from time to time and on an as-needed basis, be required to perform duties outside of the responsibilities listed here.

About CNT

CNT was founded in 1978 to organize residents to challenge harmful environmental practices with a socio-economic lens. Our founders believed in tackling issues directly within communities to elevate residents’ living standards and economic opportunities, in partnership with the people who lived there. Since then, we have expanded our work to include equitable transportation systems, inclusive housing strategies, and data informed decision making. Our core capabilities include:

  • Analysis - we are known for rigorous, interdisciplinary analysis of urban and regional problems, both quantitative and qualitative.
  • Engagement and Empowerment - our staff collaborates with local partners and government leaders, empowering them to improve communities both independently and alongside public institutions.
  • Innovation - we deliver data-informed policy, financial, and technological solutions, leveraging cutting-edge tools and insights to drive impactful change.
  • Community Collaboration - we partner with you to recognize gaps in service and devise innovative strategies to address challenges we discover jointly.

Our bottom-up, data-informed approach to problems produces evidence-based solutions. CNT helps support the creation of equitable, sustainable, and resilient local governments and communities through innovative analysis and solutions. We are proud to be known for building sophisticated data tools, developing online resources to make findings usable, and creating common-sense approaches to planning and sustainable development. 

For more about our work see CNT's Overview & Capabilities (PDF)

Salary and Benefits

The salary for this position starts at $115,000, negotiable based on skills and experience.

CNT offers 20 vacation days, 12 holidays, 10 sick days, and 2 personal days annually, and a competitive benefits package. We respect life-work balance and are supportive of staff with families. CNT permits a flexible work from home practice and will maintain a flexible schedule in the long term. CNT expects all staff to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or be willing to become vaccinated after their hire.

Employment Policy: It is the policy of CNT that all employees are employed at the will of CNT. Continued employment is subject to funding availability and job performance.

Anti-Discrimination Policy: CNT is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or job applicant based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or marital status. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, termination, promotion, transfer, layoff, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

How to Apply

We we are viewing resumes on a rolling basis.

Please send cover letter and resume to:

Andrea Ruiz
Center for Neighborhood Technology
17 N State, Suite 1400
Chicago, IL 60602
or email to aruiz@cnt.org

Please write “Managing Director, Urban Analytics” in the email subject line. No phone calls please.

Diversity Policy

View CNT's diversity policy here.

 


Jacky Grimshaw Fellows Internship

CNT is now seeking a part-time Jacky Fellows Intern for 12-months starting in June 2024. The Fellows Internship project is designed by the Fellows Intern, involving research and analysis on a specific transportation issue and will work closely with our partner organization Elevated Chicago. The Fellows Intern will have the opportunity to present their research project at a CNT event at the end of their internship.

position details Download (PDF)

Application deadline: March 22, 2024

Start date: June 2024

Compensation: The selected Fellows Intern will be compensated at a rate of $25 per hour and will be expected to work at least 10 - 20 hours per week, in addition to a capstone/travel stipend. However, if interns are earning course credit through their educational institution, compensation will be provided by their school. CNT does not provide benefits for interns.

Note: This position is remote and open to applicants nationwide.

Mission

The Jacky Grimshaw Fellows Program aims to create a pipeline for women of color who will lead transportation into a sustainable and equitable future.

When well-trained women of color are at the table to make decisions about transportation, outcomes are better and more responsive to the needs of individuals, families, and communities. The Jacky Fellows Program will shape the next generation of transportation decision-makers. Fellow Internships will prepare early-career women of color to shape public policy and transportation programs.

This new program at the Center for Neighborhood Technology will contribute to a pipeline of trained and experienced professionals to diversify the leadership of the transportation field.

Jacky Grimshaw, Vice President of Government Affairs, and Pam Jones, Transportation Policy Associate and Jacky Grimshaw Fellow (Full Time), will support and train the Fellows Intern.

The Fellows Intern will contribute to the transportation work at CNT, which occupies a distinctive position in the field, influencing and implementing public policy and programs with a goal of incorporating community voices and achieving greater equity.

Jacky is an astute and experienced public policy strategist whose extensive career includes dozens of bold and award-winning accomplishments. She has been the sole woman of color working on many transportation and urban programs and her participation has made a huge difference! A central goal of the program is to ensure that her decades of experience, skills, strategic knowledge, and connections are passed on to the next generation of leaders.

About CNT

CNT was founded in 1978 to organize residents to challenge harmful environmental practices with a socio-economic lens. Our founders believed in tackling issues directly within communities to elevate residents’ living standards and economic opportunities, in partnership with the people who lived there. Since then, we have expanded our work to include equitable transportation systems, inclusive housing strategies, and data informed decision making. Our core capabilities include:

  • Analysis - we are known for rigorous, interdisciplinary analysis of urban and regional problems, both quantitative and qualitative.
  • Engagement and Empowerment - our staff collaborates with local partners and government leaders, empowering them to improve communities both independently and alongside public institutions.
  • Innovation - we deliver data-informed policy, financial, and technological solutions, leveraging cutting-edge tools and insights to drive impactful change.
  • Community Collaboration - we partner with you to recognize gaps in service and devise innovative strategies to address challenges we discover jointly.

Our bottom-up, data-informed approach to problems produces evidence-based solutions. CNT helps support the creation of equitable, sustainable, and resilient local governments and communities through innovative analysis and solutions. We are proud to be known for building sophisticated data tools, developing online resources to make findings usable, and creating common-sense approaches to planning and sustainable development. 

Eligibility

  • Enrolled in a master’s graduate degree program OR recent graduate of a master’s degree program in urban planning or urban issues; public policy; environmental science; social justice; social sciences; sustainability studies; civic analytics; or a related field
  • Interest in a career in transportation or land use planning

Apply for the Fellows Internship

Please submit all the application requirements as part of your application (note you can choose to include a cover letter, a professional statement, or both):

  • Resume, curriculum vitae, or other description of your education and professional experience
  • Cover letter OR professional statement
  • Video that answers the below question (no longer than 120 seconds)
    • Question: Why is the mission of the Jacky Fellows Program important to you and what do you plan to do with your knowledge during and after fellowship?
    • Please attach the file to your email or send a link where we can view your video
  • Two letters of recommendation (one academic/professional and one non-academic)
  • An official transcript(s) of courses with a confirmation of your grade point average

Please send your materials by the application deadline to:

Andrea Ruiz
Center for Neighborhood Technology
17 N State, Suite 1400
Chicago, IL 60602
or email to aruiz@cnt.org

Please write “Jacky Grimshaw Fellows Internship” in the email subject line. No phone calls please.

Diversity Policy

View CNT's diversity policy here.

 


Diversity Policy

View CNT's diversity policy here